Rotator Cuff Tendinitis

Rotator Cuff Tendinitis refers to a number of maladies that prevent the ball-and-socket joint of the shoulder from working properly.

Often known as Impingement Syndrome, Rotator Cuff Tendinitis occurs when the large tendons that elevate the arm rub against bony or ligamentous projections. Whether due to inflammation of the tendon or bursae due to overuse common in sports like tennis or baseball, or a traumatic tear of the rotator cuff tendons due to accident, this condition causes shoulder pain—commonly at the front and side where the shoulder meets the upper arm—as well as weakness and stiffness. The acromioclavicular joint may be a factor to be addressed if it, too, is unstable or arthritic.

Rotator Cuff Tendinitis is usually treated through a course of activity modification, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy and, in persistently painful cases, a cortisone injection. Arthroscopic surgery to decompress or repair the inflamed tendon may be required.